Why Are There So Many Confederate Flags in the American South?

Confederate flags have become a prominent symbol in the American South, often met with mixed reactions. Many Southerners view these flags with a sense of pride and heritage, while others see them as remnants of a painful past. This article aims to explore the historical context and the evolving perceptions of Confederate flags, and to address the underlying reasons for their prominence in the region.

Historical Context and Southern Perspective

The Confederate flag has deep historical roots that extend far beyond the Civil War. The article ‘The SOUTH WAS RIGHT!’ by Kennedy Shotwell Pub. [1] provides insights into the complex history of the American South and how the Confederacy was not merely a collection of traitors, but a group fighting for their constitutional rights.

Challenges to the Historical Narrative

The narrative surrounding the Confederate flag is often met with criticism, with many arguing that the flag is a symbol of hate and discrimination. However, Dr. Thomas DiLorenzo’s ‘Everyday You Were Taught About The Civil War Is Wrong’ provides a provocative challenge to the widely accepted history. DiLorenzo argues that the Civil War was not primarily about slavery, but rather a preservation of constitutional governance and states' rights.

Understanding the Confederate Flag

The term "Confederate flag" is often conflated with the Stars and Bars, which was actually the battle flag and not the official flag of the Confederacy. The actual Confederate flag, known as the 'Stainless Banner', was used by the Confederacy as its civilian flag. This distinction is crucial when discussing the symbolism of the flags. Additionally, the Cornerstone Speech, delivered by Alexander Stephens, the Vice President of the Confederacy, makes it clear that the Confederacy was built upon the principles of white supremacy and racial superiority.

The Contradictions and Hypocrisy of Union Accusations

Union forces accused the Confederacy of "treason" for seceding in order to form a constitutional republic. However, many Southerners believe that secession was a justified exercise of their rights outlined in the U.S. Declaration of Independence and the 10th Amendment. The Union's actions during the Civil War, including the illegal and unconstitutional federal invasion, ultimately led to the destruction of the Confederate states and a high cost of lives. The Real Lincoln by Dr. Thomas DiLorenzo [2] provides extensive documentation of these events.

States' Rights and the Federal Government

The concept of states' rights has played a significant role in the Southern defense of the Confederate flag. The notion that the Confederacy was fighting for the rights of local governments and the preservation of federalism has been a persistent argument. In fact, the historical expansion of federal power has raised questions about the original intentions of the founding fathers. As the federal government has encroached upon states' rights, the contradictions between the principles of the Constitution and the actions of the federal government have become increasingly apparent.

Education and Perceptions

The perception of Confederate flags is deeply influenced by education and historical narratives. Many Southerners cite the American Indian descendants who fought for the Confederacy, such as the author's Choctaw ancestors, who felt treated like humans by the Southern states compared to the genocidal policies of the Union towards Native Americans. The false beliefs propagated by the left, academia, and pro-Union media have contributed to a skewed understanding of history. The book Myths of American Slavery [3] by Kennedy Shotwell Pub. further challenges the widely accepted accounts of slavery and its role in the Civil War.

Conclusion

Confederate flags in the American South are a reflection of the region's complex history and ongoing debates about states' rights and federal power. While symbols can be contentious, understanding the historical and cultural context is essential. By recognizing the underlying principles and intentions behind the Confederate flag, we can foster a more nuanced and informed public discourse.

References

[1] ‘The SOUTH WAS RIGHT!’ by Kennedy Shotwell Pub.

[2] The Real Lincoln by Dr. Thomas DiLorenzo

[3] Myths of American Slavery by Kennedy Shotwell Pub.